The Montero Sport primarily uses an automatic transmission in today’s models, with the latest generations commonly pairing an 8-speed automatic gearbox to the engine. Manual transmissions are not typical in current production.
The exact transmission offered can vary by model year and regional market, as Mitsubishi has adjusted configurations over time. This article outlines the current standard setup, historical context, and regional variations to help you identify the transmission in a Montero Sport you’re considering.
Current transmission setup
Automatic transmissions as the standard
For recent model years, the Montero Sport’s drivetrain most often includes an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup is designed to optimize torque delivery, fuel efficiency, and on- and off-road performance, especially when paired with the common diesel engines used in many markets.
Key points about the current configuration include:
- 8-speed automatic is the standard transmission on contemporary Montero Sport variants.
- Diesel engines are typically matched with the 8-speed automatic for improved torque and efficiency.
- Manual transmissions are not common in current production across most regions.
When shopping, confirm the exact transmission listed on the vehicle’s official spec sheet for the year and market you’re considering, as regional updates can occur.
Historical context
Earlier generations and varied options
Across its earlier generations, Mitsubishi offered a mix of transmissions depending on engine and market. While automatic transmissions were common, some markets and trims used different configurations, including 5-speed automatics and, in certain cases, 5-speed manual gearboxes.
- Pre-2015 Montero Sport variants frequently used a 5-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual, depending on region and trim.
- Manual transmissions were more prevalent in some markets at older points in the model’s history, but have become uncommon in current offerings.
As emission standards and consumer preferences evolved, Mitsubishi increasingly standardized on automatic transmissions in the Montero Sport lineup, with the 8-speed auto becoming the norm in recent years.
Market-by-market variations
Regional patterns and checks
Transmission options can still differ by region due to local regulations and demand. While the 8-speed automatic is widely adopted in many markets today, some regions may have had legacy variants with different transmissions, and occasional mid-cycle updates can change specs.
- Southeast Asia and Australia: 8-speed automatic is typically standard, often paired with the 2.4L turbo-diesel.
- Middle East and Africa: 8-speed automatic remains common, emphasizing smooth torque delivery for varied terrain.
- Europe and other markets: automatics are common, with current offerings focusing on automatic transmissions; some older stock may have had manual options in the past.
Always verify the exact transmission on the vehicle’s official spec sheet for the specific year and market, as Mitsubishi updates configurations from time to time.
Summary
The Montero Sport today is largely defined by automatic transmissions, with the current mainstream configuration being an 8-speed automatic paired to diesel engines in most regions. While earlier generations offered 5-speed automatics or manual options in certain markets, these are no longer the standard in contemporary production. For certainty, check the exact transmission specification on the model year and market you are considering.